US online casino expansion could occur in Iowa following bill introduction

Online casino
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A bill has been introduced in the US state of Iowa that, if passed, would regulate online casinos in the state.

Under House Study Bill 227, casinos in Iowa would be allowed to have two igaming skins each and, subject to approval from the Iowa Gaming Commission, a third online casino skin could be added.

If passed, several online casino operators are expected to enter the state, but they will have to pay a licensing fee of $45,000 for prospective licensees, with an annual renewal fee of $10,000. 

The bill notes that “advanced deposit gambling games” would be permitted, defined as “a method of wagering on gambling games in which an eligible individual may, in an account established with a licensee, deposit money into the account and use the account balance to pay for wagering on gambling games… via a telephone-type device, a computer, through the internet, or by any other electronic means.”

Online casino licence holders in the state must also make problem gambling information and extensive responsible gambling features available to players.

If the Hawkeye State does regulate igaming, it would become the seventh state in the US to do so, alongside Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.